A Mistubishi-powered LEAF? It could happen, now that Mitsu has parntered with Renault/Nissan

By Peter Braun November 10, 2013

reacting terrible sales mitsubishi drops mievs price 6130 i miev review exterior left side front — The current Mitsubishi EV, the i-MiEV is due for replacement. Image used with permission by copyright holder

It is no secret that Mitsubishi is in trouble in North America. Sales may have been up last month, but it still sold less than five thousand cars. But the makers of the mighty Evo isn’t giving up just yet. It is partnering with Renault/Nissan to develop a new small car.

The focus of the new strategic agreement will be a jointly developed Kei car known as the Priority One. Keis are typically only sold in Japan but for Mitsubishi the Priority One might just be the next generation of I-MiEV electric city car.

Keis are a special class of Japanese cars that receive tax incentives to remain tiny and underpowered.

These cars are extremely popular in Japan because of their cheapness and their ability to maneuver around the space age Kasbah of cities like Tokyo. Unfortunately their miniscule size –limited to 11 feet long – and low power, which current Japanese regulations limit 63 hp, make them difficult to sell on the world market.

What might make the Priority One different is the work that Nissan and Renault have already done.

Together the French and Japanese automakers also have an impressive EV design track record. The Leaf is one of the best selling EVs in the United States, and Renault makes several very successful EVs in Europe that share technology with the Leaf.

With Renault already working on an electric version of its own small city car, one that had been previously adapted for the Kei market, it would make sense for any Mitsubishi EV to share components and technology.

This project could offer Mitsubishi the shot in the arm it needs to survive its current difficulties. A successful Kei car would shore up its sales in its core domestic market, but the EV twist might make Mitsubishi a house hold brand for the first time since they stopped selling the Eclipse.

Editors' Recommendations

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Peter is a freelance contributor to Digital Trends and almost a lawyer. He has loved thinking, writing and talking about cars…

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Cars

The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024

The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.